23 killed in volcanic eruption in Indonesia's Sumatra

The number of climbers who died in the eruption of the Marapi volcano on Indonesia's Sumatra Island has reached 23, according to the West Sumatra Natural Resources Conservation Agency on Tuesday, reported Xinhua.

"Twenty bodies have been taken to hospital. Three others are in the process of being evacuated," said the agency's acting head Dian Indriati.

Of the total 75 climbers, 52 survivors have been successfully evacuated. While some have already returned home, others, including 12 individuals who were seriously injured, are still undergoing medical treatment in hospitals.

Four districts surrounding the 2,891-meter-high mountain have experienced volcanic ash rain.